It is with heavy hearts that we write to you today. After 18 years of working to build the leadership and wellness of LGBTQ youth nationwide, we regret to inform you that the National Youth Advocacy Coalition (NYAC) will be closing our doors and ceasing operation on May 13th, 2011.

This is a very difficult decision and was not made lightly. The organization has been experiencing financial hardship for years, and in the last six months the Board and staff have been working diligently to rebuild relationships with foundations, allied organizations and our key stakeholders - alumni, grassroots LGBTQ-serving organizations, and LGBTQ youth themselves.

In October of 2010, Amita Swadhin became NYAC’s Board Chair and ushered in a new cadre of youth organizers, media makers, fundraisers and nonprofit managers to lead the organization in the Board of Directors.

While the news is certainly disheartening, we applaud all of the achievements of NYAC. NYAC has partnered with a number of youth-focused LGBT organizations including COLAGE, FIERCE!, Youth Pride Center, GSA Network and many others to raise visibility around the issues that face gay and transgender youth and elevate the voices of tomorrow’s movement leaders.

GLAAD will continue to raise visibility around issues of LGBT youth homelessness, family rejection and school bullying based on actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.

About GLAAD

GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love. More about GLAAD >>